Large-clawed spiders facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Large-clawed spiders |
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| Gradungula sorenseni, a male large-clawed spider | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Chelicerata |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Infraorder: | Araneomorphae |
| Family: | Gradungulidae Forster, 1955 |
| Diversity | |
| 7 genera, 16 species | |
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Gradungulidae, also known as large-clawed spiders, is a family of spiders. These unique spiders are found only in Australia and New Zealand. They are medium to large in size.
Large-clawed spiders have three claws on each leg. They also have two pairs of special breathing organs called book-lungs. These are similar to those found in Mygalomorphae spiders, like tarantulas.
Some large-clawed spiders build amazing webs. These webs often have a hidden retreat at the top. They also have connecting threads that act like scaffolding. This scaffolding helps support a special ladder-like platform. This platform is sticky and helps them catch their prey.
Two types of these spiders, Progradungula and Macrogradungula, are special. They are the only ones in this family that are cribellate. This means they can produce very fine, fluffy silk. Progradungula spiders are large and have long legs, much like the Hickmania spider.
Contents
About Large-Clawed Spiders
Large-clawed spiders are a fascinating group. They belong to a special type of spider called haplogyne spiders. This means they have a simpler reproductive system compared to other spiders. Their unique features help them survive in their natural homes.
Where Large-Clawed Spiders Live
These spiders are native to two countries: Australia and New Zealand. This means they naturally live there and nowhere else in the world. Their habitats can vary, from forests to caves.
Different Types of Large-Clawed Spiders
The Gradungulidae family includes 7 different groups, called genera. Within these groups, there are 16 known species of large-clawed spiders. Each species has its own unique features and habits.
Some Notable Species
- Gradungula sorenseni is a species found in New Zealand.
- The Kaiya genus includes several species. These are found in different parts of Australia. For example, Kaiya bemboka lives in New South Wales.
- Progradungula carraiensis is a well-known species from New South Wales. Another, Progradungula otwayensis, is found in Victoria. These are the ones known for their special silk.
- Spelungula cavernicola is a cave-dwelling spider from New Zealand. Its name even means "cave dweller."
- The Tarlina genus has many species. They are found across Queensland and New South Wales in Australia.
